PSNI strengthens neighbourhood policing links at Coleraine community event
Police in the Causeway Coast and Glens district have highlighted their commitment to stronger neighbourhood policing following a community engagement event at Coleraine Police Station.
The Meet the Teams event brought together local organisations, community representatives and police officers to strengthen working relationships and discuss the issues affecting communities across the district.
Held on Friday 16 October, the event followed an increase in the number of officers assigned to Neighbourhood Policing Teams, with the PSNI aiming to provide a more visible and accessible policing presence.
Coleraine Meet the Teams event brings police and community partners together
Representatives from local organisations and community groups were invited to meet neighbourhood police officers, sergeants, inspectors and members of the district’s Senior Leadership Team.
The event provided an opportunity for community partners to learn more about local policing priorities and the responsibilities of Neighbourhood Policing Teams.
Those attending were also able to discuss concerns affecting their communities and explore how closer cooperation could help address local issues.
Police said the event was intended to strengthen relationships and make it easier for community organisations to identify and contact the officers responsible for their areas.
More neighbourhood policing officers across Causeway Coast and Glens
The PSNI confirmed that the number of officers serving within Neighbourhood Policing Teams across the Causeway Coast and Glens district has increased.
The additional officers are intended to support a greater visible police presence and provide more opportunities for engagement with residents, businesses and community organisations.
District Commander Superintendent Yvonne McManus said neighbourhood policing depended on officers being accessible and connected to the communities they serve.
She explained that the event allowed community partners to meet local officers, understand policing priorities and discuss concerns directly with those responsible for neighbourhood policing.
Superintendent McManus also emphasised the importance of listening to local people and working with partner organisations to prevent crime, protect vulnerable individuals and improve community safety.
Positive feedback from community representatives
According to the PSNI, feedback from organisations attending the event was positive.
Participants described the gathering as an informative opportunity to meet local officers, strengthen working relationships and establish clear points of contact.
Police said the discussions also helped identify opportunities for future engagement and cooperation.
The district’s strengthened Neighbourhood Policing Teams will continue working with residents, community representatives and local organisations to address issues affecting their areas.
PSNI plans to make community event an annual fixture
Following the response to the event, police intend to make Meet the Teams an annual opportunity for community partners to engage with their local officers.
Feedback received will help shape future gatherings, including providing more time for local discussions and information about policing programmes available to schools and community organisations.
The PSNI says continued engagement will form an important part of its approach to building safer communities across Causeway Coast and Glens.
Residents can contact police about non-emergency concerns through the PSNI website or by calling 101.
External link: Police Service of Northern Ireland official website
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